Well, I think it's about time I updated you on our trip to visit the very rural village of AKZ. This village is located near the rain forest and is about a 1 hour hike through streams and mountains. I was stretched...both physically and mentally...but loved every minute (even loved it through my tears of pain).
We arrived to the entry of the hiking trail around mid morning. I don't know what I had prepared myself for, but it wasn't what I saw or expected. The first mountain was downhill...easy peasy? NO. It was downhill, on dry clay. There were quite a few times I think I saw my life flash before my eyes.
I do need to mention that, I had prepared a rather large pack. It was full of belongings that I needed to survive a week in the village. Upon our arrival, the sweetest Malagasy family showed up to accompany us. The eldest daughter, who was petite, about 25 years old, and not wearing shoes, insisted on carrying my pack. Before leaving, I weighed my pack at 26lbs.
Anyways, the hike was beautiful and difficult. I ended up getting some pretty nasty blisters on my ankles that haven't fully healed yet. They hurt, but right outside the village, I stepped in water and I think I would have rather chop my feet off at the ankle at that point.
We entered the village, and were graciously received in their village visitor house. We were all a sweaty, stinky mess, but it was so nice to sit and rest for awhile. After resting a bit, we set up our tents, and went about learning.
We learned about the layout of the village. Where the nearest clinic was, if there was a school in the village, and where to find water. We learned so much in this small village. We learned the spiritual condition of people there and what they struggle with daily. It was very eye opening, and gave me just a glimpse into Malagasy culture.
The same sweet family that met us at the trail-head are believers. They opened their home to us. Megan and I even got to stay a night with them and share a meal. They are the absolute most gracious people. I loved meeting with them every day for meals. The father of the family taught us a Malagasy game! We never mastered it...and I don't think I ever will! But it was fun to watch them play and try to teach us!
The family has been facing hard times in their village. They are dedicated to studying God's word and making His name famous in their village. No matter the trial, they are fully sold out to Christ. He changed their lives, and it is SO evident. When we left the village we were able to encourage them with a verse. Immediately, I was reminded of Ephesians 1:15-23 which says:
For this reason, because I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints, I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the father of glory, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hop to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come. And he put all things under his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all.
It's a long passage, but it is oh so good. Their faith preceded them. They were known around their village because of their faith. They stepped out, as a family, for the sake of Christ. They faced persecution and never faltered. They are who I am thankful for. They are making a difference in lives for eternity.
Oh to be known for my faith. For people to love Jesus because of how I love Him and the people around me. I pray for the faith that is radical and stands against the fiery trials of life. Because they will come, and when they do, I want my Lord to receive all the glory. Forever and ever. Amen.
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